HTG Asks: Windows 8 CP Expiry, Nintendo DS Backups, & Windows Media Player Issues

Reader Questions: Weekly Tech Support Roundup

Each week, we compile a selection of insightful questions submitted by our readers and provide comprehensive answers for the benefit of all. This installment addresses concerns regarding the expiration of the Windows 8 Consumer Preview, the process of backing up Nintendo DS game saves, and resolving issues with disorganized audio tracks within Windows Media Player movies.

Windows 8 Consumer Preview Expiration

A common inquiry revolves around what steps should be taken when the Windows 8 Consumer Preview reaches its expiration date. Users are understandably concerned about continued functionality after the preview period concludes.

The Consumer Preview was a time-limited evaluation version. Upon expiration, the system will likely revert to a limited functionality state. It is strongly recommended to upgrade to a fully licensed version of Windows 8 or 8.1 to maintain full access to all features.

Backing Up Nintendo DS Game Saves

Many readers have asked about methods for safeguarding their Nintendo DS game progress. Protecting these saves is crucial to avoid losing valuable playtime.

Backing up Nintendo DS saves typically requires specialized hardware and software. Action Replay devices, along with compatible software on a computer, are commonly used for this purpose. These tools allow users to create save files that can be stored securely.

Sorting Jumbled Audio Tracks in Windows Media Player

Another frequently asked question concerns the issue of incorrectly ordered audio tracks within movies played in Windows Media Player. This can disrupt the viewing experience.

When audio tracks become jumbled, attempting to repair or rebuild the media library within Windows Media Player can often resolve the problem. Alternatively, converting the movie file to a different format using a video conversion tool may re-order the tracks correctly.

In some cases, the issue may stem from the original encoding of the movie file. If rebuilding the library and conversion don't work, seeking a different source for the movie might be necessary.

What Occurs When the Windows 8 Consumer Preview Period Ends?

Dear How-To Geek,

I obtained and installed the Windows 8 Consumer Preview, doing so over my existing Windows Vista installation. My planning was not ideal, and I now find myself with a single operating system, which is scheduled to expire in January 2013. What consequences will this expiry bring, and what course of action should I take?

Sincerely,

Early Adoption Blues

Dear Early Adoption Blues,

While a definitive statement regarding Microsoft’s actions is impossible, examining their handling of Windows 7 provides a strong indication of what to expect.

Expiry Effects Based on Windows 7 Precedent

Previous early versions of Windows 7, upon reaching their expiration dates, underwent several modifications. The desktop background was altered to black, and users received a "Windows Activation Expired" notification upon login and subsequently every hour. Furthermore, the system would automatically reboot every two hours.

It is reasonable to anticipate a comparable outcome with the early builds of Windows 8.

Recommended Actions

Currently, you can continue to explore the features of Windows 8. However, proactive preparation is advisable.

Consider reinstalling Windows Vista, or alternatively, acquiring a more recent operating system like Windows 7. Setting up a dual boot configuration would allow you to experiment with various Windows 8 pre-releases from a dedicated partition, while maintaining a stable and functional operating system on another.

You can find a helpful guide on creating a Windows 8/Windows 7 dual boot system here.

• Reinstall Vista: Restore your original operating system.
• Upgrade to Windows 7: Obtain a newer, supported OS.
• Dual Boot: Maintain stability while testing pre-release software.

This approach ensures you can continue to explore Windows 8 without compromising your system’s usability.

Safeguarding Your Nintendo DS Game Progress: A Backup Guide

A reader, "Backup Cravin'," recently inquired about methods for backing up Nintendo DS game saves, particularly for lengthy RPGs where progress loss is significant.

The Challenge of DS Save Backups

Nintendo does not natively provide a straightforward solution for backing up save data on the original DS. The official Nintendo website offers limited information, primarily focusing on DSiware backup capabilities to the SD card on DSi systems.

Utilizing the DSi's SD Card

While the DSi includes an SD card slot, its functionality for general game save backups is limited. A dedicated tool for backing up standard DS game saves isn't integrated into the system.

Exploring Homebrew Solutions

To overcome this limitation, employing "homebrew" software is necessary. This involves using a "flash cart"—a specialized cartridge—to run custom-made programs on your DS.

Required Software and Resources

Alongside a flash cart, specific homebrew software is needed to access and copy your saved game data. These programs allow you to "dump" the save files onto the flash cart for safekeeping.

GBATemp.net as a Key Resource

A comprehensive guide detailing three distinct techniques for accessing and backing up your DS game saves can be found on GBATemp.net. This resource provides detailed instructions for navigating the process.

It's regrettable that Nintendo didn't incorporate a simpler, built-in backup feature. However, the homebrew community offers viable alternatives for protecting your valuable game progress.

How Can I Get Windows Media Player to Play the Right Audio Track?

Users sometimes encounter issues with Windows Media Player selecting the incorrect audio track when playing media files containing multiple language options. This can be frustrating when attempting to view content with preferred subtitles or in a specific language.

Understanding the Issue

The problem typically arises from how Windows Media Player prioritizes audio tracks. It doesn't always automatically choose the track you intend to hear. Several factors can influence this selection, including file encoding and player settings.

Methods to Select the Correct Audio Track

There are several approaches to ensure Windows Media Player plays the desired audio track. These methods range from simple player controls to more advanced file tagging techniques.

1. Using the Player Controls During Playback

While the media is playing, you can directly switch audio tracks within the player interface. This is the quickest method for on-the-fly adjustments.

Simply right-click within the Windows Media Player window. A context menu will appear. Navigate to “Audio Tracks” and select your preferred language from the list.

2. Adjusting Audio Track Preferences in Options

You can configure Windows Media Player to remember your audio track preferences for future playback. This involves modifying the player’s options settings.

Open Windows Media Player and go to “Tools” then “Options”. Select the “Player” tab. Look for the “Audio output” section. While there isn't a direct setting for audio track selection, ensuring the correct audio device is selected can sometimes resolve issues.

3. Utilizing File Tagging (Advanced)

For a more permanent solution, consider editing the file’s metadata tags. This method ensures the correct audio track is consistently selected.

Tools like MP3tag (available for free download) allow you to modify the tags within media files. Within the tag editor, locate the section for audio tracks. You can then designate a specific track as the “preferred” or “default” audio track.

Troubleshooting Additional Issues

If the above methods don't resolve the problem, consider these troubleshooting steps.

• Codec Compatibility: Ensure you have the necessary codecs installed to play the media file correctly.
• File Corruption: The media file itself might be corrupted. Try playing a different file to see if the issue persists.
• Player Updates: Make sure Windows Media Player is updated to the latest version.

Summary

Selecting the correct audio track in Windows Media Player is usually straightforward. By utilizing the player controls, adjusting preferences, or editing file tags, you can ensure a seamless viewing experience. Remember to consider potential codec or file issues if problems continue.

To the How-To Geek Team,

I am experiencing an issue with a movie file. When I attempt to play it within Windows Media Player, both the English and Spanish audio tracks are simultaneously audible. This is quite disruptive. What could be causing this, and how can I resolve it to hear only a single audio track at a time?

Respectfully,

Confused Listener in Austin

Dear Confused Listener,

Several possibilities could be contributing to this problem. It’s possible the movie’s encoding process was flawed, resulting in both audio tracks being combined during creation. In such instances, separating the tracks is impossible, and the movie will remain with overlaid audio.

However, if the issue stems from a malfunction within Windows Media Player, where it incorrectly selects multiple tracks, a simple adjustment can rectify the situation.

Begin by opening Windows Media Player and loading the problematic movie file. Then, press the CTRL+M keys to reveal the classic menu interface.

From the menu bar, select Play, then navigate to Audio and Language, and finally choose "Choose Track."

A list of available audio tracks will appear. Select the desired language track to isolate the audio.

If only one track is displayed, as illustrated in the accompanying screenshot, the movie file itself contains a combined soundtrack, and no further adjustment is possible within the player.

Do you have a challenging technical question? Send your inquiries to ask@howtogeek.com, and we will endeavor to provide assistance.